Individual Professional Categories
These categories will recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional innovation and forward-thinking qualities within their organization or industry beginning 1 January 2025.
Nominations that won in the 2026 edition of the awards may be submitted to the same categories in which they won in the 2027 edition if they have been updated. If no updates have been made to the winning nominations, they must be submitted to different categories for 2027.
Information to be submitted online for entries in these categories include
a. An essay of up to 4,900 characters describing the nominee’s innovative achievements since 1 January 2025, OR a video of up to five (5) minutes in length describing the same.
b. Optional (but highly recommended), add to your entry up to 10 webpage links and up to 10 document uploads to support your case to the judges. These might be press articles, press releases, videos, or images, for example.
X01. Most Innovative Chairman of the Year
X02. Most Innovative Creative Person of the Year
Only professionals in creative fields such as advertising, photography, illustration, filmmaking, etc., should be nominated in this category.
X03. Most Innovative Cultural Leader of the Year
Recognizing individuals who have advanced cultural innovation, heritage preservation, or creative industries across Asia-Pacific.
X04. Most Innovative Entrepreneur of the Year
X05. Most Innovative Customer Service Executive of the Year
X06. Most Innovative Finance Executive of the Year
X07. Most Innovative HR Executive of the Year
X08. Most Innovative Leader of the Year
X09. Most Innovative Mentor of the Year
X10. Most Innovative Operations Manager of the Year
X11. Most Innovative Product Manager of the Year
X12. Most Innovative Sales Executive of the Year
X13. Most Innovative Social Impact Leader of the Year
Recognizing professionals who have led innovative initiatives addressing social, environmental, or community challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
X14. Most Innovative Sustainability Leader of the Year
X15. Most Innovative Team Builder of the Year
X16. Most Innovative Technology Leader of the Year
X17. Most Innovative Woman of the Year
X18. Most Innovative Young Leader of the Year
Recognizing leaders under 30 who are creating positive change through innovation in business, social impact, or advocacy.